Quote:
Originally Posted by CRussel
That could present its own problems with getting into Thailand, I would think. Most countries have a very strict policy on taking large amounts of cash in or or out of the country.
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Japan has no restrictions on how much cash it taken out of the country, but you do have to declare it if the amount exceeds a certain limit. Same with the US. As long as you report it, you can take any amount. Both are about $10,000 USD. And
you do have to declare cash over $10,000 USD coming into the US, but there are no limits. (At least, as far as I've been able to find out on embassy websites about moving money.) I haven't seen any upper limits stated, however I think that if one were going to move several million US dollars, the IRS, DEA, and even the ASPCA and the DAR would get interested. And there is no restriction about bringing cash INTO Thailand, but there is a strict law about taking Thai Baht OUT of the Kingdom.
This was the first time I've ever walked around all day that that sort of money in my shoulder bag. Actual stacks of bank bundles. In fact, I don't think I've ever even handled that much cash before. Frankly, I was quite happy to reach the American Express office, and convert most of it into traveler's checks and get them signed. Then I exchanged about $2,000 into Thai Baht. Long experience in S.E. Asia has taught me that most tourists get robbed right after changing money at local Money Changers all over Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia, and the Philippines. (And pick-pocketed right after using ATM's all over the world!) I'd rather have just enough to get us through the first few weeks in-country, get a bank account set up and the money safely put away, before I go anywhere near local money changers.
Home again now, the checks secured in the vault, all my personal weapons put away, and sitting back with a mug of Taylor's of Harrogate's "English Breakfast" tea, and thinking about dinner! It's been a fun day!
Stitchawl